The United States and Israel have initiated military strikes against Iran, marking a significant escalation in tensions in the region. This operation was confirmed early on Saturday, following a series of threats made by President Donald Trump aimed at pressuring the Iranian regime to negotiate a deal concerning its nuclear program. The strikes come after Trump previously condemned Iran for its violent suppression of protests in January 2025.
In a video statement posted on Truth Social, Trump stated, “The U.S. is undertaking a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests.” The operation has been designated as Operation Epic Fury by the U.S. military, emphasizing the seriousness of the undertaking.
The situation has escalated as Israel’s military reported multiple rounds of Iranian missile launches targeting their territory. In response to these threats, there were also reports of Iranian missiles being intercepted over Bahrain, which hosts a significant U.S. military base.
Military Preparations and Strategic Movements
In preparation for the strikes, the U.S. military mobilized over a dozen naval ships and aircraft towards the Middle East. This strategic move aligns with the Trump administration’s ongoing pressure campaign against Iran, which includes indirect nuclear negotiations with Iranian officials.
Trump previously ordered airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025, indicating a pattern of military engagement as part of the broader strategy to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The current military operation signals a decisive shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Iran and its nuclear program.
Trump urged Iran’s military forces to lay down their weapons and called upon Iranian citizens to “take over your government” following the U.S. and Israeli strikes. This appeal to the Iranian populace reflects an attempt to incite internal dissent against the Iranian regime.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will be closely monitoring the developments resulting from these military actions. The implications of this operation could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and impact U.S. relationships with both allies and adversaries. The potential for further escalation remains a pressing concern, particularly as military exchanges continue between the involved parties.
